Homosexuality was decriminalised in 1979 and by 1986, the National Commission on Sex Education had announced that homosexuality was a sexual orientation and that homophobia needed to be curbed through education. This led to a slow but steady sexual liberalisation in social, political and cultural acceptance.

Today, Cuba enjoys an annual gay pride parade across the country, and a booming gay nightlife scene, helping to dispel some of the attitudes that were once deeply ingrained in Cuban society. Cuba's brave LGBTQ+ community are pulling up the flag loud and proud - so there's never been a better time for our travellers to join in the fun on the Caribbean's hottest island!

Whilst most of the hotels here offer all inclusive and drinks are included , whatever your tipple is it is available on tap !

Nightlife in Varadero is geared towards tourists, but most clubs welcome a diverse clientele consisting of both Cubans and international travellers. The majority of  Varadero's nightlife  tends to be quite spread out along the narrow peninsula, so booking an organised pub-crawl may be a good idea (these often include entry to one of Varadero's festive cabaret shows).

Calle 62 is a place unlike any other - at night, part of the road leading up to it is closed off to traffic and gets turned into a makeshift dance floor. The bar is popular with both locals and tourists and  hosts live music shows and invites professional dancers to get the crowd going for the night.

One of Varadero's favourite nightlife venues, Havana Club is a lively disco that attracts both locals and tourists. The party usually starts quite late (usually after midnight), with guests dancing and knocking back  the excellent mojitos mixed here.

Located inside a natural cave, La Cueva del Pirata is a busy cabaret popular with the young crowd. Evenings start with a loud music and a dance show, followed by a night-long dance party for those who wish to party until the early hours. Most hotels will be able  arrange a transfers for guests

Depending on the hotel you stay at  you will have no doubt have  a couple  of restaurants to choose from and varying menu choices but if you fancy some local culture and seeing what's on offer you will not be disappointed.

Although most restaurants in Varadero cater to  international tourists, classics of Cuban cuisine are still served at local "paladares" (family-run businesses). One menu item that features prominently on local restaurants' menus is lobster and some local specialities include ajiaco stew, meat empanadas, as well as chicken and pork dishes.

With its well thought-out, sixties-themed interior and impeccable service, Varadero 60 is one of the finest restaurants  on the peninsula. The menu mainly features Italian flavours, with lobster and sirloin steak as the house specialties. Seating is available indoors and outside on the veranda.

This excellent BBQ restaurant is favoured by tourists looking to break the routine of all-inclusive hotel dining. La Barbacoa serves a selection of prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood, including lobster. All orders include a side of flavoured bread, rice, vegetables, and potatoes.

Paladar Salsa Suarez one of  Varadero's finest  restaurants - this  fine dining restaurant is known for its fabulous  service and varied menu, including  well-crafted dishes from cuisines from all over the  world, from sushi to traditional Cuban specialties.

In total contrast to the hustle and bustle of havana twin your holiday to relax at the beach and varadero is one of the best.

Varadero Beach is rated one of the world's best beaches in TripAdvisor's Traveller's Choice Awards in 2019, ranking at number two. Mainly  because of its beautiful fine sand and warm, crystal-clear waters. The best known beach is Playa de Varadero, also known as Playa Azul, which is 20km long so you should be able to find a suitable spot. 

If you love scuba diving or snorkelling, you will love all the amazing  sea creatures that this beach possesses and its stunning coral reefs and exotic coloured fish.

The majority of the hotels here are situated on the beach and offer a variety of watersports, sunbeds and drinks services meaning you can relax and make the most of this beautiful paradise without leaving the comfort your sunbed.